ANA Discussion Forum
AN Community => AN Community => Topic started by: LADavid on May 11, 2008, 11:01:47 am
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Wow, what a week! Three ANs and more to come. I finally got around to doing some needed things this week as well. On Thursday I started physical therapy with Theresa England -- first to get rid of the synkinesis and secondly to get my face back. I'm in it for the long haul but I am anxious to get back in front of a camera (except for the 6AM call times and auditions).
And yesterday was my first big step (actually a lot of them). My daughter and I ran the Revlon Run for the Cure 5K. We even beat last year's time finishing in 32 minutes -- 3 minutes faster than last year. The event was held at USC at the Coliseum starting out on a street in front of the campus -- I'm guessing about 30-40,000 runners/walkers. Tom Selleck started the race with a six-shooter -- what happened to the Magnum? Of course my daughter fell in love with him. We were up near the start. I had no problems until I entered the darkness of the tunnel going into the finish at the Coliseum. Whoa! That was really disorienting. It looked like the runners in front of me were running toward me. It lasted until we broke out of the tunnel -- then we sprinted to the mid-field finish line.
Now for you newbies and recent posties I want to pass this along because you probably didn't see it. Late in January of this year, I tried to run a few steps. It felt like my brain was loose in my head -- like they forgot to reattach it after surgery. I actually thought my running days were over. Fast forward to yesterday -- I'm back to my running self. Yes I still have balance issues -- there are good steady days and there are those pesky drunken pirate on the deck of a rolling ship days -- but I am seeing the improvement. Things do get better -- it just takes time and patience.
Now if I can figure out how to do it, I'll post a picture of my daughter and me after the race in another post.
To all you moms -- Happy Mother's Day. And to everyone else -- Happy Sunday.
David (back to running)
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Good Going David!!!!!!!!!! javascript:void(0); That is inspirational after the 2 dizziest days of my life and I am pretreatment. I did start up my balance exercises, so you gave me the incentive I needed!
Mary 8)
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oops, sorry about the yellow
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Congratulations David!!! It must have felt good to cross the finish line. And you even beat last year's time. I think running does help with balance if you are able to do it. So when's the next race?
Jean
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Hey Jean
I always try to run a 10K on July 4th -- going back my Peachtree Roadrace days. So I'll be looking for one around here. Don't know that my daughter will join me -- but I'm going to make an effort.
BTW -- as to be expected -- when I shared the race picture with my family back east -- they commented that I looked fine and thought that I might be a bit lazy about going back to work. Of course they couldn't see from the picture that half my grin doesn't go away when I stop smiling and that my head spins off balance for no reason and that I talk funny -- all those little things that they don't see until they see me in person.
David
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Ok David... I'm going to do the unthinkable... I'm going to make every attempt to make you blush! :o
It is my understanding that The Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, an Oscar statuette, is given to an "individual in the motion picture industry whose humanitarian efforts have brought credit to the industry." Now.... I know you haven't been on this site long.... and I know your road has been most difficult, esp. in light of what you have endured post AN surgery..... but.... I recognize your truly unconditional desire to be able to help those around you, in light of issues you endure. I recognize in you the need to give back when others try to give to you. Your unselfish desire to be able to help others in need..... when you are enduring work issues, face issues, etc.... just simply floors me. Congratulations to you and your daughter for a job well done in the fundraiser walk... and, in light of you being an official member of the PBW for a very short period of time... and your willingness to share with others here, regardless if positive or not-so-good...... and to help others around you.... me thinks we should make sure you receive the Jean Hersholt Humantarian award. You have my vote! :)
Congrats to you both!
(btw, I'm doing a 6k local Breast cancer walk next weekend.... want to loan me your legs? My 3 legs (which includes my cane) could use the added boost!)
Phyl
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You ANA folks are SO awesome!
I did a 5 k arbor run walk ... and then went for a 2 hour cycle on the beach with the family a couple weekend backs. Happy to be alive this mother's day... and to be with hubby & kids ...
To all you petrified newbies out there HEALING DOES HAPPEN ... but you have to work at it.
Keep moving forward!
HUGS & Kisses to David :-* :-* ;) (Now he is blushing Phyl) and thanks for posting your successes. And even if some days you do not have successes still keep posting- we are here for you.
Daisy Head Mazy
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Yay, David. So happy your race was successful. (PS, my son is named David..) I second your nomination, by the way. And Tom Selleck. Oh, gosh, I was a huge Magnum PI fan. He made me swoon!
Sue in Vancouver, USA
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Aw pshaw, Phyl. Thank you for the kind words. Since it's Mothers's Day, it would do my mom proud to know that her son was thought of as a humanitarian -- I got what I have of it from her.
Good luck on your 6K. And with your cane. Mine is still next to the front door for those bad days. Yesterday was a very good day. Except for that tunnel thing -- that was really strange. Sort of like some surreal movie.
And Daisy thank you for the hugs and kisses -- but no blush -- it doesn't play well in my business.
And Sue. I worked with Tom before on his sitcom called The Closer back in the 90's. He is pretty impressive and a nice person too. You picked a good guy to swoon over.
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Hi, David:
Congratulations on successfully participating in the 'Run for the Cure' 5 k race! It sounds as if both father and daughter had a great time and even bettered your old record. Well done! :)
While excellent surgical outcomes and rapid recovery stories are inspiring, your slower-than-you-like but continuous recuperation, the ability to regain your normal balance and eventual control of your facial muscles (as you run races) serve as a clear illustration of triumph over adversity, AN-style. Your experience, attitude and accomplishments since your surgery, added to those of others that post here, provide encouragement for AN patients that may be struggling with post-op/radiation issues, as you have.
Thanks for the update, David. Along with many others, I wish you complete success with your physical therapy. :)
Jim
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I'm gonna push it a little this week too ... taking the Kayak out after dark ... :o Tues ... stay tuned....
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HI David -
You are such a Rock Star! I am sending you a big cyber hug. Thanks for sharing this with us - you actually made my good eye tear up.
I am in awe.
Debbi - at a loss for words...
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OMG, David! Did you say Tom Selleck :o
If I had only known that he would be at the race I would have laced up my running shoes and joined you and your daughter!
I had a huge crush on Tom Selleck in college - watched Magnum PI religiously - even skipped the bars the nights he was on TV, so you know it was serious LOL I was crushed when he married Jilly Mack - nothing personal, Jilly ;)
Congratulations on your new record - and on just being able to run a race post AN - a very big accomplishment!
Oh, and you definitely have my vote for the award. Put me down as a "yes", Phyl.
Jan
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Joef,
Wow you are living on the wild side! :D ;) Night time kayaking huh? :-\ Be sure to wear your life jacket and take a fishing pole... no flashlight fishing though you well get into do de doo.
Now I have done the cycling with no hands challenge I want to get back on a horse... but the problem is, unlike a bicycle or kayak, the horse is the one control and that freaks me...
Have fun and keep us posted.
Daisy Head Mazy
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David,
Are you able to share a picture of the awesome event?
What a milestone! I am glad for you. Your daughter must have been proud too! (that is if she wasn't giving all of her attention to Tom:-)
Kate
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Hey Kate
Got a picture but I just don't know how to post it. Anybody know how?
David
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David -
I'm trying to remember how I posted my BAHA "hat" picture. Basically you write a reply and in the body of the reply (the text) you click on one of the little icons above the smiley faces. The second one from the left - under the icon for italics. The icon looks like a picture - and if you hover your mouse on it you will see that it says "insert image".
Once you click on that icon, you will see brackets with "img" inside them, followed by more brackets with "/img" inside them. If you insert your picture's file name between the two bracketed "imgs" it should work. Kind of confusing, I know.
I hope it works. If if doesn't maybe someone else can explain it to you better. I'm not at all computer literate ;)
Good luck,
Jan
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David,
I agree with everyone. You have been so supportive! Your positive and realistic attitude is contageous. Thank you for being there and congratulations on the run!
Hugs n kisses from me too since it won't make you blush! :)
Mary
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OK, I'm going to try this. This is a picture of my daughter, Britannia and me in front of the Coliseum following the race on Saturday.
(http://www.photobucket.com/albums/hh23/restlessram/revlonfinalcrop.jpg)
(David, I took a look at how you posted and "tweeked" the URL... if this is you 2, then all set. If you choose, on this post "modify", you will see how I did it... and make sure you do it on another line/paragraph. Phyl)
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So that didn't work. I'll look for another way.
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So that didn't work. I'll look for another way.
another way found :) all set! :)
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Thanks, Phyl. Don't know what computer stuff you did, but it worked.
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Great picture! You 2 are adorable! Thank you for posting photo! Congrats, again!
Mary
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Gee David- what you described of you synkinesis on other posts I expected much worse. You actually look great! You can see the whites of your teeth when you smile… I cannot do that yet. The most symmetry I can get is through the Mona Lisa Smile.
The two of you look great! Way to go on the run. A photo to cherish forever…
Thanks for sharing.
Daisy Head Mazy
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Hello David,
What a great picture. You both look so happy.
I though of doing the walk/race but was afraid that I wouldn't be able to find parking. I live out in the Redlands/Loma Linda area and knew I'd have to leave pretty early in the morning to get there, then the battle of parking. Was that a problem? I'm now thinking of getting a hotel room next year then I'd have more time to find my way to the starting line. I've also been trying to get Chelsea to join me but so far she isn't interested. She is doing well and has been running lately, playing soccer (which her neurosurgeon has now told her to stop due to her having an AV shunt), strength training and yoga. It really is amazing how time can be the best healer.
Congrats on not only completing the race but shaving off the 3 min.
Take Care,
Michelle
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Thanks, Phyl. Don't know what computer stuff you did, but it worked.
I waved my magic wand! ;D
Glad to help. All parta my job! :) Not sure if you saw my edit notes directly under the pic, but will repost here for ease of reference. You would have to go back to the post that includes the picture to follow what I note below. And, btw... FAB pic! :)
(David, I took a look at how you posted and "tweeked" the URL... if this is you 2, then all set. If you choose, on this post "modify", you will see how I did it... and make sure you do it on another line/paragraph. Phyl)
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Beautiful picture, David!
You guys look great ;D
Jan
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Way to GO! & Great Picture!! AT least you can take good pictures and can't really tell the face problems (even though I know that doesn't really help you!). That is the main reason I did the T3 so that my girlies could have some good family pictures with me having a more "normal" face!!
K
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Not to jump too far off topic here, but how are you doing, K?
I haven't had time to read your blog lately, so I kind of lost track.
Can you update us?
Maybe you could start a new subject.
Thanks,
Jan
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David -
Thanks for sharing the photo! I think you look fantastic. Your smile is much better than mine. Good thing you're the actor and not me! And your daughter is beautiful - but you already knew that.
I am so impressed by all the big accomplishments here lately! We are a very resilient bunch, aren't we?
I'm planning on a 5K (my first one ever) next spring. It'll be the 3rd annual memorial run for my nephew Aaron, who passed away when he was 10. Couldn't do the first one last year because it was a couple of weeks after my surgery and couldn't make this year because I'd aready booked our trip to Arizona when I found out the dates. I'm hoping to do a local one this fall to see how it goes.... I was thinking that maybe if they put Tom Selleck at the front, that would be incentive for me to run - maybe even more than 5K! Kinda like the dangling carrot...
Again, congrats David!
Lori
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Thanks all for the kind words. But my daughter would kill me if she saw that picture -- her very white teeth aren't so white. Opps.
Anyway, Daisy and Lori -- that's what my back east family said about my smile. The problem with my face is that half that smile -- on the right side -- is there permanently. That's from the synkinesis. It won't go away. So when I should have a normal expression, I have half a grin. I think security guards think I'm up to something and women think I'm hitting on them and who knows what men think. That's why I'm seeing the PT -- to get my nerves and muscles to relax. I have my next appointment on Thursday -- I've already noticed some improvement after the first session.
And Michelle -- yes you would have had to get up very early to make it to the run from Redlands. My daughter picked me up in Hancock Park at 6:45, we made it to USC by 7:15 and parked in the paid parking near the Coliseum. By 8:00 that was full and they were redirecting cars to the free parking on the other side of campus I'm quite sure those people never made it to the race start. But it is a fun event -- especially running through a tunnel under the Coliseum and bursting out onto the field from the end-zone. We didn't stick around for the Go-Gos, but they always have some name act in the stadium as the walkers make their way in. I've been running that one since 1997 -- and it gets bigger every year -- I'm guessing about 30,000 + runners/walkers this year. You should try it out next year.
David
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David;
Thanks for the photo of you and Britannia. You both look quite happy, as you have good reason to be.
Your daughter's teeth look fine but as you know (based on your profession) lighting can make a huge difference in how things appear. Under the 'wrong' lighting, even Donny Osmond's teeth could look less than blindingly white. :)
Not having seen you (or a photo) pre-surgery, I would say that your facial expression appears perfectly normal. However, I read your explanation of how your smile is semi-permanent, which is certainly problematic so I wish you total success in your treatment.
Jim
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Awesome Picture...Thanks for posting it!
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women think I'm hitting on them
David -
I know a lot of men who wouldn't mind having a problem like that :D
But seriously, I agree that your smile doesn't look bad at all. You know best though what it used to look like.
I'm glad you're already seeing some improvement from the PT - that's very encouraging.
Jan
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Hey Jan
The smile isn't bad -- it's just the fact that half of it won't go away. I look like Jack Nicholson as the Joker. It doesn't work when you're trying to play a serious role. I'm still waiting for a call for my agent to play the new Joker. The real problem though is that I can't speak clearly. I sort of talk out of the side of my mouth.
David
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David -
somewhere in the acting world there are roles for actors with your current "issues".
If I recall Marlon Brando didn't speak too clearly in his role as the Godfather and I never could understand Sylvester Stallone when he played Rocky (yo, Adrienne) ;) And let's not forget that Jack Nicholson got pretty darn good reviews for his Joker role. I'd imagine you could put all of them to shame :)
You just have to look at the bright side, a half of a smile is better than none at all.
Hang in there; great things are in your future; you just gotta believe!
Jan
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Jim,
That is hilarious that you mentioned Donny Osmond’s teeth. ;D Truth is he DOES have a great smile. What is even more funny is that I have a daughter who loves to play with my old Donny Osmond doll (I still have it ::) ). She dressed him up like Shakespeare :o and Barbie was dressed as Juliet … as I eyed her immersed in dramatic play - from a distance. When I was a tween (back when dinosaurs roamed the earth :-\ ) I had a Donny Osmond LP and I distinctly remember lip sinking 8) “puppy love� with classmates after school. Too funny…
When I flew to House to meet the famous (and very wonderful man) Dr. Brackmann they had a copy of HOUSE CALLS placed on the table in the waiting area … and yes in there was a photo of Donny Osmond and his family. His little brother had surgery at HEI. Who knows he may be contributing on our forum here under an alias.
He has been involved in benefit concerts and fundraisers for HEI. He has 2 younger brothers with profound hearing loss.
http://www.hr-hpr.com/issues/articles/2005-10_08.asp?frmTagFilePath=%2Fnews%2Easp
Truth is I was fascinated to read the HEI articles too…
http://www.hei.org/news/publications/publication.htm
and to see that he had a keen interest in helping others with profound hearing loss.
Hey LA David maybe you should network with the Osmond’s- next time you are heading to HEI maybe see if he will meet you there… Just a wild idea… 8)
Daisy Head Mazy :)
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David,
If Ozzy Osbourne can make money as an "actor" - then I don't think you'll have any problem at all! If I understood one word you said out of an entire paragraph, that would still be more than I can understand when that guy talks!
Lori
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David,
If Ozzy Osbourne can make money as an "actor" - then I don't think you'll have any problem at all! If I understood one word you said out of an entire paragraph, that would still be more than I can understand when that guy talks!
Lori
Good point, Lori. Plus Ozzy has the same drunken sailor walk that some of us ANer's have been known for in the past - and the present :D
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Yes, and unlike Ozzy, we don't even have to be drunk to walk like that!
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David!!
You look Mahvelous!! Really, you look great - that's one good looking smile!
Debbi (still practicing pirate sneer... and envious of David's smile!)
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Hey Daisy,
I was the ultimate Donny Osmond fan here, in the "Great White North" and it's his two oldest brothers that were born deaf.
I've also been told many, many, many times I look like "Marie", even at my wedding 24 yrs ago.
David,
You look Marvelous!!!
Anne Marie
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Thank you all for the kind compliments. It gives me the encouragement to push that much harder in physical therapy. I also wanted you all to know (especially Jean), because Britannia and I were so encouraged by our run on Saturday, we decided to take on the Long Beach Half Marathon on October 12th. She's never run one and the last one I ran was in 2002. Training starts this Saturday.
Thank you all again.
Best wishes.
David
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Congratulations, David! Know how fun that was. My mom and I did a 1/2 Marathon in Myrtle Beach this year - we walked that one - first time for both of us. Then I did another 1/2 marathon here in GA early this Spring and I ran (slowly) most of it. It is so exciting to cross that finish line. I am actually supposed to do the Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk again this year - that is 60 miles over 3 days. I did it last year and re-signed up as soon as I finished that one. An amazing experience that I don't want to miss this year, which is one reason I'm hesitant to do any treatment til later in the year - whatever treatment that may be...
Enjoy your training for the marathon - it's very inspiring to see you posties accomplishing so much. It's good for those of us waiting to figure out what to do to hear these success stories.
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My, oh, my David! I'm real impressed... but most of all... VERY proud of you! :) You are certainly providing inspiration for many... more than you know. :)
Phyl
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David -
your motivation is incredible! I'm still trying to get out of the house to walk around the block on a regular basis ::)
I'll have to start following your very good example and get myself in gear!
Jan
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Hey CindyJ
My all-time favorite Half Marathon was the Atlanta Half on Thanksgiving Day -- although the last time I ran it, the weather was frigid (20 degrees for all of you Northerners who are snickering). The great thing about that race is that after buring off all those calaries, you can eat whatever you want on TDay and not have to worry about a thing. We always stopped for a Shoney's breakfast buffet on the way home.
If you like running Half Marathons, you should look into it. It starts on Peachtree in Chamblee and goes all the way into downtown and then curves off to Turner Field. The Atlanta Track Club runs it.
And Jan and Phyl -- as far as being an inspiration - I'm glad if that is an outcome -- the truth is that I have been brain-numbingly bored all Winter being copped up and this is a way to get out and get my sanity back. If I can't have my face back when I want it, at least I'm going to get my brain back. My daughter and I are in this together, I'll keep you posted on our progress. This is the link to the race. Beautiful course over to the Queen Mary then along the ocean.
http://www.runlongbeach.com/site5.aspx
David
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Thanks, David, I'll keep that Thanksgiving one in mind - you do never know about the weather around here...My training has become almost non-existent with this AN surprise and other health issues, but I must get back to the pavement if I hope to do the 3-Day in October...and I do hope to do it.
How long ago did you live in Atl?
cindy
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Hey Cindy
I lived in Stone Mountain, Buckhead, and Woodstock -- 1976 - 1990.
Brookhaven -- 2000-2001. As you know, there was a huge change in all that time. If you know it, I was a Northpoint regular. I miss that part of the city Someday I want to write about its heydays in the 80's. It was an amazing city. I ran the Peachtree Roadrace last summer -- my 20th time. It brought back great memories.
Looks like the city is moving out your way.
Hope y'all on the forum will forgive us for digressin' a bit.
David
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Yes, the city has definitely invaded us wait out here in Forsyth...we're feeling rather civilized now. Wow, 20 P'tree Roadraces!
Ok, ok, we'll get back to AN topics...
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Yes, the city has definitely invaded us wait out here in Forsyth...we're feeling rather civilized now. Wow, 20 P'tree Roadraces!
Ok, ok, we'll get back to AN topics...
And still have T-Shirts going back to 1979. Ever run it? If you haven't, you should. It's one of the great fittness celebrations in this country. 55,000 runners who can run 6 miles. There is nothing like it for a runner. Gayle Baron is a friend of mine and an inspiration and the winner of the first few Ptrees not to mention a Boston Marathon. She was a running pioneer. Last I heard, she was living somewhere near you.
OK, now back to AN topics.
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Hey David,
Good luck on your training for the half-marathon. I know you'll be able to do it. During my half-marathon I was thinking about the advice you gave me. Keep the same pace and do it one step at a time. It was good advice. Your time in the 3K has got me motivated to get faster. This past week I ran 3K in 32:51 and then with my friend in 32:10. My previous time was closer to 38 minutes. Today I was out running my 3 miles and my son came running up behind me. He convinced me to add an extra mile through a cool path. We came out on a hill in a field behind our house. It was a fun run. I was pleased to hear him say that I'm running faster now than in the fall. I think all the running is good for my face. Keeps the blood moving there. Have fun with your training.
Jean
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Good going, Jean. Those times are a huge improvement. And you added an extra mile becuase you wanted to!
My daughter and I started our half-marathon training this week by running three miles along the ocean. We're running an 11 minute mile pace fro the Half. So that's what we're training at. Next weekend is 4 miles. We're increasing a little at a time. Ten miles doesn't happen until August.
Keep up the good work. Any more races planned?
David
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There was a local 6k Cancer walk yesterday that the bloke and I and the team of 15 did to help raise money for cancer work being done locally. 2 courses.... one was 3k, one was 6k. I did the 3k with the bloke by my side for assistance..... was a great morning (weather wise) and we raised some awesome money. 2nd yr I've done this walk... it felt great. Although I follow in the realm for the need for this walk (as many here know), it felt great to be able to do something for those that are in situations tougher than me. All in all, a great feeling, a great day and I'm ready for next yr's walk. I also want to that those here that sponsored us for the walk and know that we walked with each and every one of you in mind. :-*
I encourage all here to do what they can to participate in walks/runs/rides to the best of your abilities. My abilities are no longer numerous, but what it does for the soul is immeasurable. I know there are brain tumor walks that go on around the county (I think it was last year or year before that many of us supported shoegirl in her efforts in doing the AZ brain tumor walk sponsored by the NBTS)......and I enourage all here to reach out to others that may be in tougher shape than we.
Congrats to all those that give of the hearts, the wallet, the physical in doing such events.... It's a feeling worth experiencing if you can.
Phyl
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Way to Go, Phyl!! ;D Let me know next time you do something and we will sponser you too!!
K
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Congrats, Phyl, and well put (as usual) - yes, there is nothing quite like participating in an event of that kind. It is so good for your soul, as well as your body, not to mention the obvious good it does for the causes they support. Will keep a lookout for a brain tumor walk/run. As I said earlier in this thread (I think) I really do hope to once again do the Breast Cancer 3-Day in October...I'm thinking this AN can just wait a bit longer.
Hope everyone has a good week!
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Way to Go, Phyl!! ;D Let me know next time you do something and we will sponser you too!!
Ditto ;)
Jan
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It's been a busy week. On Tuesday, I met with the Social Security Administration and started my permanent disability process. It was confusing to say the least. I did get a little coaching the night before from a good friends wife who works with an attorney that represents SSA claims. Hopefully it will pay off because...I got the news from the Physical Therapist on Thursday that my face recovery will take 18 months to 2 years. So it looks like acting and print work is going to take a hiatus. I'll keep you all posted on the disability thing for those of you who are pursuing that option. I'd rather be working but if I can't...
David
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David -
glad to hear you started the social security process. I hope it goes quickly and smoothly.
Any more thoughts on pursuing your writing career? IMO you have a great future ahead of you as an author :)
Jan
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Once again, I agree with Jan (on the writing thing)!!
K
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Thanks Jan and Kay
Once I get past my battles with our less than understanding government, my first project is going to be getting what I've written published and more writing. I look forward to it.
David
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Oh LA David, Universal Studios is burning up! Oh the humanity! What a sad loss. Never been there, mind you, but...still. Too bad, so sad.
Sue in Vancouver, USA
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Best of luck with the publishing plans, David.
Please keep us updated ;D
Jan
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David:
The Social Security Disability bureaucracy is a bit of a nightmare to navigate but I understand it has been improved. We'll see.
My wife battled for SS Disability - and won - in 1997. It took a few years, voluminous medical reports and numerous attempts. Finally, an attorney specializing in SSDI was engaged and, although it took awhile, she prevailed. I trust that you will, too.
It's unfortunate that your acting career has to be put on hiatus but I hope your writing career can be re-started, soon.
Meanwhile, continue with your positive attitude, keep doing what you're doing and know that this will pass.
Jim
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Hello David,
I think we all would rather be working but when some of our health issues get involve we have to do slow down. I signed up 2 years after my surgery, but because of those same health issues I couldn’t over come I went ahead on sign on , 90 days later I was excepted. Oh, and I did my paper work online. When I took my paperwork in to SSO they gave me my interview then. I guess it must have been a slow day or because it was a small town.
Good Luck with the Social Security Administration
eve
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Thank you all for the encouragement. I'll take whatever advice I can get on SSDI. Eve, I did the same as you. I took the questionaire on-line, made an appointment, and met with a representative all with in a week. Your 90 day success sounds promising. And Jim, I do hope they have improved the system. How long did it ake for your wife's approval? Also, I noticed that in looking back at some old threads, Don indicated that he had written to his Congresswoman and with her involvement, was approved in 6 weeks. Has anyone else done that? I have till December when my State Disability runs out and my SAG insurance expires (you have to work to keep it). I'm going to pursue writing and other things I can do from a computer -- but I'd like to know the Sword of Damocles is no longer hanging over my head.
Thanks again
David
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David -
I am keeping fingers - and toes - crossed that your case moves through the system quickly. And, hopefully some of these experiences will come in handy as you pursue writing. I happen to think you are a very gifted writer and would love to read more by you.
Debbi - awaiting David's best seller...
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Thanks, Debbi. Right now I have a plateful of stuff that I want to make vanish. I'm giving it about three weeks to go away and then I'm going to get serious about writing.
Hope you're doing well.
David
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David;
It took my wife about two years to be approved for Social Security Disability benefits.
Fortunately, she had disability insurance through her employer that paid 70% of her former salary. The SS attorney she engaged (they work on contingency) suggested she file claiming 'depression'. She certainly was depressed by that time - over the runaround she was getting from SS. Once she filed for benefits claiming depression, she was approved in a few months. She has to see a psychiatrist every two years or so (at the government's expense) and he just asks her if she still feels depressed. She does. End of examination. It's a screwy system.
I wish you great success as you prepare to charge the SS barricades. :)
Jim
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David, hope the SSD is moving along for you. How is your training going for running?
Today I ran a 50 mile relay with three other people. Actually four because even our driver did a bit of running for us. We were slow, but we all finished. The first lap I did was in the light rain, next lap cloudy, and the last lap was sunny and humid. Of course that was the longest at 5 miles. We started at 8:00 and finished at 4:45. My son was on another team in the race. He finished at 2:15! It was called the Hope Memorial Relay in honor a wonderful woman who died from a rare form of cancer just a few weeks shy of her 50th wedding anniversary. Her family does this in her honor. All the money raised is given to the cancer funds. We live in a small town so there were only about 15 teams. I hope it continues to grow each year. This was only the second year. It feels so good to be able to help others.
Jean
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Congratulation Jean!
It doesn't matter how long it took you to finish, the fact that you were out there in the first place to do something nice for someone else means a lot. And I can assure you, had I been there, you would have finished a LONG time before I did... I'd probably just be crawling across the finish line about now.
Lori
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David,
After two years of trying and two turn downs I received my SSDI. I had to prove that I would never be able to work in the fields I knew ever again.
What ever you do, don't tell them you want to pursue a writing career. The SSA doesn't care if you can get a job or get paid for what you can do, it is the ability to do it. There is a formula and I think it is listed in the SSD booklet on how they determine your eligibility. Your disablement has to end in death (darn we all die, sometime) or you get to age 62 and get your SS that you paid into for a hundred years! Felt like a hundred years. You also aren't eligible for six months after you first become disabled. I quit work in August 2004. I didn't quite understand why I couldn't do my job. I was a make up artist. My hands shook, I was dizzy and no balance. I wan't diagnosed until May 2005 and had my surgery 7/28/2005. The lump sum I received went back to August of 2004 for my initial disability date. I was amazed. So the check I received was for thirty -five months. I filed shortly after my surgery and the first turn down was because I had not been deemed disabled for six months when I applied. I had put that I felt my disability started on the day of my surgery. My attorney changed that scenario to the previous August and the SSDB agreed! I was one of the lucky ones. I didn't have a hearing and I filled everything out online.
I hope this info helps. Everyone is different.
Brenda
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David,
Brendalu is correct , The SSA doesn't care if you can get a job or get paid for what you can do, it is the ability to do it.
eve
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Thank you all for your input. Very sage advice. I didn't know about mentioning writing. So far I haven't. I did fill out a very lengthy form and submitted one to my surgeon to complete. So now it's time to wait.
And Jean, congratulations on the running. That is a huge accomplishment. I'm still training with my daughter. I discovered that I was too disoriented and off-balance to run on my own. But with her next to me to watch out for me, I feel more comfortable. We did five miles last Saturday. We're increasing mileage every week. We have until October 12, so I think we'll be in good shape and we're using the Jeff Galloway training program that I used to run the Marathon.
David